English as an Additional Language (EAL) Programme and Curriculum at One World International School in Singapore
English as an Additional Language (EAL) Programme
Our English as an Additional Language (EAL) programmes for Primary School and Secondary School are designed to cater to the unique needs of our international student body. Available at both our Nanyang Campus in Jurong and Digital Campus in Punggol, we provide support for students in Grades 1 to 8 at different proficiency levels via three categories:
- Additional English Language Support: A supplementary programme aimed at developing and expanding English skills for students in Grades 1 to 8, while they continue in their mainstream IB PYP and Cambridge IGCSE classes.
- Enhanced English Language Support: A more intensive programme for students in the mainstream IB and IGCSE classrooms in Grades 4 to 8 who require additional support in their English language development.
- Academic English Prep Programme (AEPP): A full-time, immersive programme for students in Grades 6 to 8 who are new to the English language, designed to equip them with the necessary skills for success when they move to mainstream IB and IGCSE classrooms.
The OWIS approach to EAL
The EAL programme plays a pivotal role at our international school. At One World International School, we are proud of our multicultural environment, and we love the fact that we have students who hail from countries around the world. However, this diverse student body also requires us to rise to the challenges that come along with that.
Many of our students have been speaking a different language in their homes and in the educational setting since they were born. This requires us to develop an innovative EAL curriculum that works to actively improve the English skills of our students.
Our EAL programme objectives:
- Improved writing and oral communication skills
- Build vocabulary
- Enhance grammar skills
- Improved study skills (note-taking, time management, and self-management)
- Boost confidence in the English language
Our EAL Programme Includes:
Evaluation by an EAL Specialist
An evaluation of each individual student's current English language skills. The EAL specialist will determine where they are in terms of their fluency and understanding and will then create goals that are personalised for that individual student.
Focus on Contextualised Language Use
Intentional teaching methods that focus on contextualised language use. Students are provided with immersive and engaging lessons that allow them to use their English skills both orally and in writing. We emphasise our inquiry-based approach to our EAL programme.
Purposeful inquiry-based approach into English-based texts
Purposeful inquiry into English-based texts and lessons. This approach leads to a conceptual understanding of the English language.
Get in touch with us to see how we can support your child’s all-round development
Discover why our EAL curriculum helps to prepare your child for their education journey in Singapore. Contact us to find out more about our EAL programmes at both OWIS Nanyang and OWIS Digital Campus, Punggol for each grade level (Primary School and Secondary School).
Multicultural Learning at OWIS
We believe that the beauty of our school lies in our differences.
At OWIS, we encourage students to continue to learn about and explore their own culture as well as the culture of their peers.
We strive to provide a curriculum that encompasses a wide variety of cultures and backgrounds. We want our students to share their own traditions and values, as this allows classmates to better understand each other as well as the world around them. Multicultural learning at OWIS extends beyond the classroom. Our students often go out into the community and participate in events that allow them to meet their neighbours and learn more about the local culture. OWIS strives to create an invigorating learning environment that challenges all students to rise to the occasion and do their best while learning to become global citizens. Our EAL programme plays a critical role in allowing our students to be successful, and we are proud of the support that our EAL students receive.
What Parents Have To Say About Our EAL Programme
What does it feel like to be a part of the OWIS family? Hear genuine stories and feedback from our OWIS EAL programme parents.
Chanya was six years when she enrolled in Grade 1 during the academic year in October 2016. She was previously in a Thai school and we realised that her weak grasp of English could obstruct her daily school life. As a new student, both to the school and in the language, I was so worried about her. But after starting at OWIS, my daughter had settled down very well after the first few weeks. The English as an Additional Language program (EAL) offering one-on-one support has helped her to catch up quickly with her social life and normal classes. We have been delighted being a part of the One World community.
On-Usah C.
Admission To The EAL Programme
Prospective EAL programme students at OWIS are welcomed into a supportive and inclusive environment where every learner, regardless of language background, is given the opportunity to thrive. Our admission process is designed to identify and meet the language learning needs of each student, ensuring they can successfully transition into our international community and become confident, global citizens.
We welcome students who are new to English in Early Childhood and offer our EAL programme for students in Grades 1 to 5 in our international Primary School and up to Grade 8 for our Secondary School students.
Parents interested in enrolling their child in our EAL programme must also complete all other steps of the application process accurately and in a timely manner. Find out more about OWIS’ entry requirements or contact our team for further information.
Frequently Asked Questions About EAL Curriculum
Who is eligible for the EAL programme?
The EAL programme at OWIS differs from campus to campus. Our EAL programmes are designed for primary school students from Grades 1 to 5 and Secondary School students from Grade 6 to Grade 8 who are new to English. Eligibility is determined based on an initial assessment of the student’s English language proficiency to ensure they receive the appropriate level of support.
How is a student's need for the EAL programme determined?
Upon application to OWIS, each student’s English proficiency is assessed through a combination of interviews, written assessments, and previous school reports. This holistic evaluation allows our EAL specialists to determine the student’s specific language needs and tailor support and programme resources accordingly.
Are EAL classes integrated with the main curriculum?
Yes, EAL classes at OWIS are carefully designed to complement the main curriculum. EAL students participate in the mainstream classroom for most of their day and receive additional English language support from EAL specialists in a way that enhances their learning experience without isolating them from their peers.
AEPP students have their own immersive programme and upon successfully graduating from the course, they transition to the mainstream classrooms.
Can students join the EAL programme at any time?
Students can join the EAL programme at any point during the academic year, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. Our flexible intake policy allows for ongoing assessments to accommodate the needs of newly enrolled students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.
The exception is the AEPP course, in which the enrolment happens twice a year (not throughout the year).
How does OWIS measure progress in the EAL programme?
Progress in the EAL programme is measured through holistic and continuous assessment, which includes observations, project work, written assignments, and formal testing. This approach allows EAL specialists to monitor students’ language development closely and adjust instruction to meet evolving needs. Feedback is regularly provided to both students and parents to ensure transparent communication about the student’s language acquisition journey.
How does a student graduate from the EAL programme?
Students graduate from the EAL programme when they have completed the entire duration of the programme and have demonstrated a sufficient level of English proficiency to succeed in the mainstream classroom. This is determined through a combination of assessments, including:
- Standardised English language tests
- Teacher observations and evaluations
- Classroom performance in English-based subjects
The specific criteria for graduation may vary depending on the student’s grade level and individual learning goals.
Visit our school and see how we can support your child’s all-round development
Discover why our rigorous and holistic EAL curriculum successfully prepares your child for their future, and see how we raise internationally minded and confident lifelong learners.
